Samuel Laman Blanchard Quote

The starched matron is fain to put faith in the compliment which in her day of youth and grace she knew to be nonsense.... If her mirror will not admit of this she has other resources; she has sage counsel, admirable judgment, perfect knowledge of the world.... Tell her she is not to be imposed upon, and you impose upon her effectually. Admire her penetration, and you will not find her impenetrable.

"That Old Birds are not to be Caught with Chaff". - Sketches from Life (1846)